U.S. patent application number 10/901855 was filed with the patent office on 2006-02-02 for automated fluid handling cartridge, fluid processing system, and methods.
This patent application is currently assigned to Expert Services Group. Invention is credited to Gershon Giter, Dmitry Volovik.
Application Number | 20060024211 10/901855 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 35116014 |
Filed Date | 2006-02-02 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060024211 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Giter; Gershon ; et
al. |
February 2, 2006 |
Automated fluid handling cartridge, fluid processing system, and
methods
Abstract
The present invention relates to a cartridge, system, and
methods that can be used for automated handling of fluids, such as
blood. The cartridge can be configured to obtain a fluid sample
from a sealed container, e.g., a septum sealed container. The
system can be configured to handle the cartridge for operations
such as obtaining a sample and/or dispensing the sample from the
cartridge into, for example, a microtiter plate. The method of the
invention can employ the cartridge or system of the invention.
Inventors: |
Giter; Gershon; (St. Paul,
MN) ; Volovik; Dmitry; (St. Paul, MN) |
Correspondence
Address: |
MERCHANT & GOULD PC
P.O. BOX 2903
MINNEAPOLIS
MN
55402-0903
US
|
Assignee: |
Expert Services Group
St. Paul
MN
|
Family ID: |
35116014 |
Appl. No.: |
10/901855 |
Filed: |
July 28, 2004 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
422/404 ;
422/63 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G01N 35/1072 20130101;
G01N 35/1079 20130101; B01L 2200/0684 20130101; B01L 3/0231
20130101; Y10T 436/2575 20150115; B01L 9/54 20130101; G01N
2035/0434 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
422/104 ;
422/063 |
International
Class: |
B01L 9/00 20060101
B01L009/00 |
Claims
1. An apparatus comprising support and plurality of fluid
receptacles; the support configured to retain the fluid
receptacles; the fluid receptacle configured to obtain sample from
sealed container; the fluid receptacle comprising piercing system,
reservoir, vent system, and filling system; the vent system
configured to provide fluid communication between the container and
surroundings; the filling system configured to provide fluid
transfer between the container and the reservoir; the piercing
system configured to enter the sealed container; and the reservoir
configured to contain the fluid sample.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the support comprises support
body and a plurality of receptacle retainers.
3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the fluid receptacle comprises
the piercing system, the reservoir, the filling system, and valved
vent system.
4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein in the piercing system
comprises rigid conduit; the rigid conduit configured to provide
fluid communication from the container to the reservoir.
5. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the reservoir comprises
reservoir housing; the reservoir housing defining fluid
chamber.
6. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the filling system comprises
first piston; the first piston configured for reciprocal motion;
the first piston sealably engaging the reservoir housing.
7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the first piston comprises
first seal.
8. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the valved vent system
comprises second piston, filter, first vent conduit, second vent
conduit, and vent body; the first piston defining first vent
conduit and second vent conduit; the first vent conduit, the vent
body, and the second vent conduit configured to provide fluid
communication from rigid conduit to surroundings; the filter
configured to filter fluid passing from first vent conduit to
second vent conduit; the second piston configured for reciprocal
motion and sealably engaging the valve body; the second piston
configured to reciprocate from a position removed from the second
conduit to a position obstructing flow of fluid from the first vent
conduit to the second vent conduit.
9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the second piston comprises
second seal.
10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the vent system comprises
rigid conduit, fluid channel, and filter; the rigid conduit and the
fluid channel being configured to provide fluid communication
between the container and the filter; the filter being configured
to retain liquid and solid and to provide communication of gasses
from the fluid channel to the surroundings.
11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the rigid conduit comprises
needle.
12. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the support is configured to
couple to a rack configured to contain sealed containers.
13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the fluid receptacle further
comprises alignment fins configured for reversibly engaging the
support.
14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the support defines
alignment grooves configured to engage the alignment fins.
15. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the fluid receptacle further
comprises positioning projections configured for reversibly
engaging the support.
16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein support defines fluid
receptacle channel and positioning grooves; the fluid receptacle
channel configured to house a fluid receptacle; the positioning
grooves configured to reversibly engage the positioning
projections.
17. A method for automated handling of biological fluids,
comprising: venting at least one sealed container; removing a fluid
sample from at least one of the sealed containers into at least one
corresponding cartridge; depositing the fluid sample into an output
container; and moving the output container.
18. A method for handling fluid samples with an automated system
comprising: extracting sample fluid from a sample container into a
fluid receptacle; wherein the fluid receptacle comprises a fluid
extraction conduit and defines a first cavity and comprises a first
piston and a second piston, the first piston disposed in the first
cavity and defining a second cavity, the second piston disposed in
the second cavity.
19. The method of claim 18, further comprising venting the sample
container; the first piston defining a first fluid conduit and a
second fluid conduit; the first fluid conduit in fluid
communication with the fluid extraction conduit; the first fluid
conduit in fluid communication with the first cavity; the second
piston movable between an open position wherein the first cavity is
in fluid communication with the second fluid conduit, and a closed
position wherein the first cavity is not in fluid communication
with the second fluid conduit; wherein venting the sample container
comprises inserting the fluid extraction conduit into the sample
container with the second piston in the open position.
20. The method of claim 18, further comprising dispensing the
sample fluid from the fluid receptacle into an output
container.
21. A fluid handling system, comprising: sample transport system
configured to receive and transport an array of cartridges; sample
cataloging system configured to read an identification mark on the
cartridge; sample removal system configured to withdraw a fluid
sample from the cartridge; sample dispensing system configured to
place the fluid sample into an output container; and conveyor
system configured to transport the output container.
22. The system of claim 21, wherein the sample transport system
comprises rack conveyor.
23. The system of claim 22, wherein the rack conveyor is configured
to receive and transport a rack of cartridges coupled to a rack of
sealed containers.
24. The system of claim 21, wherein the sample removal system
comprises aspiration system.
25. The system of claim 24, wherein the aspiration system is
configured to insert a portion of a cartridge into a sealed
container and remove a fluid sample from the sealed container.
26. The system of claim 21, wherein the sample cataloging system
comprises identification system.
27. The system of claim 26, wherein the identification system is
configured to read indicia on rack of cartridges.
28. The system of claim 21, wherein the conveyor system comprises
aliquot conveyor.
29. The system of claim 21, wherein the sample dispensing system
comprises fluid dispensing system.
30. The system of claim 29, wherein the fluid dispensing system is
configured to place a fluid sample obtained into a predetermined
container.
31. The system of claim 21, further comprising a fluid processing
system.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to a cartridge, system, and
methods that can be used for automated handling of fluids, such as
blood. The cartridge can be configured to obtain a fluid sample
from a sealed container, e.g., a septum sealed container. The
system can be configured to handle the cartridge for operations
such as obtaining a sample and/or dispensing the sample from the
cartridge into, for example, a microtiter plate. The method of the
invention can employ the cartridge or system of the invention.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Liquid sample processing is an everyday activity of a
typical clinical, diagnostic, or research laboratory. Although the
sample may include a toxic chemical or a biohazard, many
conventional sample processing steps are conducted manually. Such
manual processing of hazardous liquids can expose the laboratory
worker to aerosols or puncture wounds. For example, sample tubes
are often under either positive or negative internal pressure due
to the method employed to collect the sample, changing temperature,
or agitation. Opening such a tube can release an aerosol of the
biohazard. Laboratories typically require employees to move samples
into a large and expensive isolation hoods for opening and other
steps that might release a hazardous aerosol.
[0003] Manual sample handling can compromise sample integrity.
Handling dozens or hundreds of individual samples inevitably leads
to human error. Human error can compromise the sample chain of
custody and require costly or redundant testing and
quality-control. Further, human handling of open sample tubes can
lead to cross-contamination of samples.
[0004] In addition, manual sample handling can be labor intensive.
Each worker can open and remove liquid from only one tube at a
time. An increase in sample processing throughput is usually
achieved by putting several technicians on the task in parallel. It
is estimated that such manual sample processing can account for 65%
of all laboratory hands-on labor costs.
[0005] In high throughput sample processing, such as whole blood or
plasma analyses for infectious agents or genetic testing, large
numbers of liquid samples come into the laboratories in capped and
bar-coded glass or plastic vessels, e.g., VACUTAINER.RTM. tubes.
Manual procedures for processing such samples can include checking
the sample for clotting, scanning the barcode, verifying
correspondence of sample with proper subject, placing a new number
or barcode on the tube, removing the tube from a carrier, inverting
the tube, uncapping the tube, disposing of the tube cap, placing
the same new number or barcode on a different tube, pouring the
sample into the different tube, placing the tube into a machine
rack, orienting the tube for barcode reading, removing the tube
from the machine rack, recapping the tube, and placing the tube
into a carrier. Error in any of a variety of these labor-intensive
procedures can expose a worker to hazardous substances or
compromise the sample.
[0006] There remains a need for improved fluid handling systems
that can rapidly and safely remove potentially harmful fluids from
containers.
SUMMARY
[0007] The present invention relates to a cartridge, system, and
methods that can be used for automated handling of fluids, such as
blood. The cartridge can be configured to obtain a fluid sample
from a sealed container, e.g., a septum sealed container. The
system can be configured to handle the cartridge for operations
such as obtaining a sample and/or dispensing the sample from the
cartridge into, for example, a microtiter plate. The method of the
invention can employ the cartridge or system of the invention.
[0008] In an embodiment, the cartridge can be in the form of a
fluid receptacle. The fluid receptacle can be configured to obtain
sample from sealed container. The fluid receptacle can include a
piercing system, a reservoir, a vent system, and a filling system.
The vent system can be configured to provide fluid communication
between the container and surroundings. The vent system can be
valved. The filling system can be configured to provide fluid
transfer between the container and the reservoir. The filling
system can include a piston. The piercing system can be configured
to enter the sealed container. The piercing system can include a
rigid conduit. The reservoir can be configured to contain the fluid
sample.
[0009] The fluid receptacle can be a component of an apparatus also
including a support. The support can be configured to retain a
plurality of fluid receptacles.
[0010] In an embodiment, the present method can include a method
for handling fluid samples with an automated system. The method can
include removing sample fluid from a sample container into a fluid
receptacle; venting the sample container with the fluid receptacle;
and dispensing the sample fluid from the fluid receptacle into a
second container.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] FIG. 1 schematically illustrates an embodiment of a fluid
receptacle according to the present invention and including an
embodiment of piercing system, reservoir, filling system, and vent
system.
[0012] FIG. 2 schematically illustrates an embodiment of a fluid
receptacle according to the present invention and including an
embodiment of piercing system, reservoir, piston filling system,
piston vent system, and vent filter. This Figure illustrates the
fluid receptacle configured for venting a container to the
surroundings.
[0013] FIG. 3 schematically illustrates an embodiment of a fluid
receptacle according to the present invention and including an
embodiment of piercing system, reservoir, piston filling system,
piston vent system, and vent filter. This Figure illustrates the
fluid receptacle with the vent sealed.
[0014] FIG. 4 schematically illustrates an embodiment of a fluid
receptacle according to the present invention and including an
embodiment of piercing system, reservoir, piston filling system,
piston vent system, and vent filter. This Figure illustrates the
fluid receptacle with the vent sealed and the filling system moved
to draw or retain fluid in the reservoir.
[0015] FIG. 5 schematically illustrates a perspective view of an
embodiment of a fluid receptacle according to the present
invention.
[0016] FIG. 6 schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of
the fluid receptacle of FIG. 5 cut along line A-A' and including an
embodiment of piercing system, reservoir, piston filling system,
piston vent system, and vent filter. This Figure illustrates the
fluid receptacle configured for venting a container to the
surroundings.
[0017] FIG. 7 schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of
the fluid receptacle of FIG. 5 cut along line A-A' and including an
embodiment of piercing system, reservoir, piston filling system,
piston vent system, and vent filter. This Figure illustrates the
fluid receptacle with the vent sealed.
[0018] FIG. 8 schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of
the fluid receptacle of FIG. 5 cut along line A-A' and including an
embodiment of piercing system, reservoir, piston filling system,
piston vent system, and vent filter. This Figure illustrates the
fluid receptacle with the vent sealed and the filling system moved
to draw or retain fluid in the reservoir.
[0019] FIG. 9 schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of
the fluid receptacle of FIG. 5 cut along line B-B' and including a
vent.
[0020] FIG. 10 schematically illustrates an embodiment of an
apparatus according to the present invention and including an
embodiment of support and plurality of fluid receptacles.
[0021] FIG. 11 schematically illustrates a plurality of fluid
receptacles configured as an array in accordance with an embodiment
of the invention.
[0022] FIG. 12 schematically illustrates a sample holding rack
configured with an array of fluid receptacles in accordance with an
embodiment of the invention.
[0023] FIG. 13 schematically illustrates a sample holding rack,
samples, and an array of fluid receptacles in accordance with an
embodiment of the invention.
[0024] FIG. 14 schematically illustrates one half of a sample
holding rack in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
[0025] FIG. 15 schematically illustrates sample tubes disposed in
one half of a sample holding rack in accordance with an embodiment
of the invention.
[0026] FIG. 16 schematically illustrates an embodiment of the fluid
handling system according to the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Definitions
[0027] As used herein, the term "sealed" used in reference to a
container (e.g., a tube, a vial, a jar, a bottle, or the like)
refers to a container with its opening covered or obstructed by a
cap, a membrane, a septum, a seal, or the like. A "capped
container" is an example of a sealed container.
The Present Cartridge, System, and Methods
[0028] The present invention relates to a cartridge, system, and
method that can be used for automated handling of fluids, such as
blood, serum, or other biological fluids. Advantageously, in
certain embodiments, the present invention can reduce the risk of
exposure to biohazards, can reduce the risk of errors that may
jeopardize sample integrity, and/or can reduce the amount of labor
required of a laboratory technician in the course of handling fluid
samples.
[0029] The cartridge can be configured to obtain a fluid sample
from a sealed container, e.g., a septum sealed container.
Surprisingly, in an embodiment, the cartridge can equalize pressure
between the sealed container and the surroundings and obtain a
fluid sample without releasing fluid (e.g., as an aerosol) from the
cartridge or the container. Advantageously, in certain embodiments,
the present cartridge can be configured to obtain a fluid sample
from any of a variety of sizes and types of sealed containers, in a
manner that need not expose a laboratory worker to aerosols,
rapidly, with precision and accuracy, and/or with a reduced number
of manual handling steps. Advantageously, in certain embodiments,
the present cartridge can be configured to accommodate a range or
variety of sample volumes, to be disposable, and/or to present a
closed environment.
[0030] The system can be automated to provide high throughput
sample handling and dispensing. Advantageously, in certain
embodiments, the system can be programmed to provide variable
sample processing speeds of up to 1000 sample containers per hour,
variable acquired sample volume (e.g., about 50 to about 1000
.mu.L), and/or variable dispensed sample volume. In an embodiment,
the system can be configured to automatically read an identifying
marking (e.g., a barcode) on a container without an operator being
required to orient the containers in a particular fashion.
Advantageously, in an embodiment, the system provides automated
sample chain of custody maintenance from the sample container to
the secondary container. In an embodiment, the sealed or sample
container can be recovered from the system effectively sealed and
ready for storage or further processing, but without an aliquot of
the sample. In an embodiment, the present system can operate on
containers in an order or sequence that can be predetermined or
altered by the system.
[0031] The method of the invention can employ automation to remove
a sample from a sealed container and dispense that sample into a
secondary container. The method of the invention can include
equalizing pressure between a sealed container and its surroundings
and obtaining a fluid sample without releasing fluid (e.g., as an
aerosol) from the cartridge or the container. The method can
include high throughput sample handling and dispensing. For
example, in certain embodiments, the method can include automated
sampling from up to 1000 sample containers per hour, acquiring
samples with any of a variety of volumes (e.g., about 50 to about
1000 .mu.L), and/or dispensing variable sample volume. In an
embodiment, the method can include machine reading of an
identifying marking (e.g., a barcode) from a container without
prior manual orientation of the containers. The method of the
invention can employ the cartridge or system of the invention.
Cartridge
[0032] The cartridge can be configured to obtain a fluid sample
from a sealed container. Surprisingly, in an embodiment, the
cartridge can be configured to vent the sealed container without
releasing fluid (e.g., as an aerosol) from the cartridge or the
container. That is, in such an embodiment, the cartridge can
include one or more filtered conduits coupling the inside of the
container to its surroundings. Such a filtered conduit can provide
fluid communication into a container having a negative relative
pressure or out of a container having a positive relative pressure.
Such fluid communication can equalize the pressure between the
container and its surroundings. Such a configuration can prevent
the escape of aerosols from the container of, for example, a
biohazardous substance. This can provide added safety for
laboratory workers.
[0033] The cartridge can be configured as a single use or
disposable article that can rapidly obtain a fluid sample from a
sealed container with precision and/or accuracy suitable for
commercial or research purposes. The cartridge can be configured to
obtain a fluid sample from any of a variety of sizes and types of
sealed containers containing any of a range of volumes of fluid.
Further, the cartridge can be configured to contain any of a range
of sample volumes. The present cartridge can also reduce the number
of manual handling steps required to obtain fluid samples from a
sealed tube, especially a tube containing a toxic or hazardous
substance.
[0034] For removing a sample from a sealed container, a portion of
the cartridge can be configured to enter the sealed container
without removing the cap or seal from the container. For example,
the cartridge can be configured to insert one or more conduits
through the seal on the container. Advantageously, the cartridge
can be configured to vent or to equalize pressure between the
surroundings and the interior of the sealed container. In an
embodiment, the cartridge can be configured to filter any fluid or
aerosol vented from the container through the cartridge before it
enters the surroundings. In an embodiment, the cartridge can be
configured to trap any liquid vented from the container through the
cartridge before it enters the surroundings.
[0035] The cartridge can be configured to withdraw a fluid sample
from the container. The cartridge can be configured to insert one
or more conduits into the container. The cartridge can be
configured to draw the fluid through the conduit and into a
chamber. The cartridge can be configured to retain the fluid in the
chamber. In an embodiment, the cartridge can be configured to
dispense the retained fluid without processing or otherwise
altering that fluid.
[0036] In an embodiment, a plurality of cartridges can be
configured together. For example, a plurality of cartridges can be
configured in a rack with spacing so that each of the plurality of
cartridges can be positioned in proximity with each of a plurality
of sealed containers for obtaining a sample. By way of further
example, a plurality of sealed sample containers can be positioned
in proximity to a plurality of cartridges to facilitate transfer of
the samples to the cartridges. The rack of cartridges can be
configured for mating with a rack of sealed containers. In an
embodiment, the rack of cartridges and the rack of sealed
containers can be coupled to form an integral unit.
[0037] In an embodiment, the cartridge and the rack can be
configured to position the cartridge at any of several positions
relative to the rack. For example, the portion of the cartridge
that enters the sealed container can be positioned within the rack.
Alternatively, the portion of the cartridge that enters the sealed
container can protrude from the rack a sufficient distance that it
can enter the container. In an embodiment, the cartridges can be
removed from the rack. A rack of sealed containers can include
containers positioned proximal to or distal from the portion of the
rack that can mate with a rack of cartridges.
Embodiments of the Cartridge and its Support
[0038] In an embodiment the cartridge can be a component of an
apparatus. The apparatus can include the cartridge in the form of a
fluid receptacle. The fluid receptacle can be configured to obtain
a sample (e.g., a fluid sample) from a sealed container. The fluid
receptacle can include at least one of a piercing system, a
reservoir, a vent system, and a filling system. In such an
embodiment, the vent system can be configured to provide fluid
communication between the sealed container and surroundings. The
filling system can be configured to provide fluid transfer between
the sealed container and the reservoir. The piercing system can be
configured to enter the sealed container. The reservoir can be
configured to contain the fluid sample. The apparatus can include a
plurality of fluid receptacles.
[0039] The apparatus can also include a support. The support can be
configured to retain a plurality of fluid receptacles. In an
embodiment, the support can include a support body and a plurality
of receptacle retainers. One or more of the receptacle retainers
can be occupied by a fluid receptacle. In an embodiment, a
plurality of fluid receptacles themselves form the support. In an
embodiment, the support can be configured to couple to a rack. The
rack can be configured to contain a plurality of sealed
containers.
[0040] In an embodiment, the fluid receptacle can include alignment
fins configured for reversibly engaging the support. In such an
embodiment, the support can define one or more alignment grooves,
which can be configured to engage the alignment fins. In an
embodiment, the fluid receptacle can include one or more
positioning projections, which can be configured for reversibly
engaging the support. In such an embodiment, the support can define
fluid receptacle channel and positioning grooves. The fluid
receptacle channel can be configured to house a fluid receptacle.
The positioning grooves can be configured to reversibly engage the
positioning projections.
[0041] In an embodiment, the fluid receptacle can include the
piercing system, the reservoir, the filling system, and the vent
system. In an embodiment, the piercing system can include a rigid
conduit. The rigid conduit can be configured to provide fluid
communication from the container to the reservoir. In an
embodiment, the rigid conduit can include or be a needle. In an
embodiment, the reservoir includes reservoir housing. The reservoir
housing can define a fluid chamber. In an embodiment, the filling
system can include a first piston. The first piston can be
configured for reciprocal motion. The first piston can sealably
engage the reservoir housing. Reciprocal motion of the first piston
can draw fluid into the fluid chamber through the rigid conduit.
The reverse reciprocal motion of the first piston can expel fluid
from the fluid chamber. In an embodiment, the first piston can
include the first seal.
[0042] In an embodiment, the fluid receptacle can include the
piercing system, the reservoir, the filling system, and a valved
vent system. In an embodiment, the valved vent system can include
second piston, filter, first vent conduit, second vent conduit, and
vent body. The first piston can define first vent conduit and
second vent conduit. The first vent conduit, the vent body, and the
second vent conduit can be configured to provide fluid
communication from the rigid conduit to the surroundings of the
fluid receptacle. The filter can be configured to filter fluid
passing from first vent conduit to second vent conduit.
[0043] In such an embodiment, the second piston can be configured
for reciprocal motion and to sealably engage the valve body. The
second piston can be configured to reciprocate from a position
removed from the second conduit to a position obstructing flow of
fluid from the first vent conduit to the second vent conduit. In an
embodiment, the second piston can include a second seal.
[0044] In an embodiment, the vent system can include rigid conduit,
fluid channel, and filter. In this embodiment, the rigid conduit
and the fluid channel can be configured to provide fluid
communication between the container and the filter. The filter can
be configured to retain liquid and solid. The filter can be
configured to provide communication of gasses from the fluid
channel to the surroundings. In an embodiment, the rigid conduit
can include or be a needle.
[0045] An embodiment with one or more needles can also include one
or more sheaths. A single sheath can enclose portions of one or
more (e.g., two) needles. In an embodiment including a needle and a
sheath, the sheath can be configured to enclose at least a portion
of the needle.
[0046] In an embodiment, the cartridge can be configured to contain
a sample of a volume as small as, for example, about 50 .mu.L to as
much as about 1,000 .mu.L. In an embodiment, the cartridge can be
produced by automated assembly. The cartridge can be any of a
variety of cross-sectional shapes, for example, round, oblique,
rectangular, or square.
[0047] The cartridge can be configured to couple to or enter any of
a variety of types and configurations of sealed containers. The
sealed container can be sealed with any of a variety of seals,
caps, or septa. For example, in certain embodiments, the cartridge
can be configured to enter a container sealed with a
VACUTAINER.RTM. or HEMOGARD.RTM. type tube cap. The sealed
container can be any of a variety of sample tubes having any of a
variety of lengths and diameters. In certain embodiments, the
cartridge can be configured to couple to and/or remove a sample
from the tube with a height of about 75 mm to about 125 mm and a
diameter of about 9 to about 16 mm. For example, the tube length
can be 47, 64, 75, 82, 100, 120, or 125 mm. For example, the tube
diameter can be 9, 10.25, 12.5, 13, 15, or 16 mm. The tubes can be
made of any of the variety of materials, for example, glass or
plastic. The tubes can contain any of a variety of volumes of
sample, for example, about 0.5 to about 20 mL.
[0048] In an embodiment, the cartridge includes a conduit long
enough to extend from a surface of the cartridge through the seal
on the container and into the container. Such a cartridge can
withdraw a sample from a container including any of a variety of
volumes of sample provided that the container is oriented (e.g.
inverted) such that the sample contacts an aperture of the rigid
conduit and/or the seal of the container.
Illustrated Embodiments of the Cartridge
[0049] FIG. 1 schematically illustrates an embodiment of a
cartridge according to the present invention in the form of a
receptacle 5. Receptacle 5 includes embodiments of piercing system
7, reservoir 9, filling system 13, and vent system 11. The piercing
system 7 can be configured to enter a sealed container. For
example, the piercing system 7 can be configured to pierce a septum
on the sealed container. In an embodiment, the piercing system
includes at least one needle. The filling system 13 can be
configured to transfer fluid from the sealed container into the
reservoir 9. In an embodiment, the filling system 13 can generate a
negative pressure inside the reservoir 9, which can induce fluid to
enter the receptacle 5 through the piercing system 7.
[0050] The vent system 11 can be configured to provide fluid
communication from the sealed container and/or the reservoir 9 to
the surroundings. In an embodiment, the vent system 11 allows a
positive pressure inside the sealed container and/or the reservoir
9 to be dissipated. In an embodiment, the vent system 11 allows a
negative pressure inside the sealed container and/or the reservoir
9 to be relieved. In some embodiments, a filter (not shown) is
disposed in fluid communication with (e.g., within) the vent system
11. Such a filter can retain liquid, solid, or aerosol that might
otherwise escape from the sealed container or receptacle 5 into the
surroundings.
[0051] Vent system 11 can be configured to provide selective fluid
communication between the surroundings and the receptacle 5 and/or
sealed container. In an embodiment, the vent system 11 can be in
the form of valved vent system 41. Valved vent system 41 can
include optional vent valve 42. Valved vent system 41 can be
configured to provide valved fluid communication between the
surroundings and the receptacle 5 and/or sealed container. For
example, valved vent system 41 (e.g., vent valve 42) can be moved
or altered from a first configuration that allows fluid
communication between the surroundings and the receptacle 5 and/or
sealed container and a second configuration that stops fluid
communication between the surroundings and the receptacle 5 and/or
sealed container. In an embodiment, valved vent system 41 (e.g.,
vent valve 42) can be in a configuration that provides fluid
communication from the reservoir 9 to the surroundings with
positive pressure in the reservoir 9 and that stops fluid
communication from the surroundings to the reservoir 9.
[0052] FIG. 2 schematically illustrates another embodiment of
receptacle 5 according to the present invention. FIG. 2
schematically illustrates rigid conduit 19, which is an embodiment
of piercing system 7. In an embodiment, rigid conduit 19 can be in
the form of a needle (not shown). Rigid conduit 19 can provide
fluid communication between a sealed container (not shown) and the
interior of receptacle 5. FIG. 2 schematically illustrates an
embodiment of reservoir 9 in the form of reservoir housing 21,
which defines fluid chamber 23 (see also, e.g., FIGS. 3 and 4).
[0053] FIG. 2 schematically illustrates piston vent system 43 as an
embodiment of valved vent system 41. Piston vent system 43 includes
first piston 25, second piston 29, optional filter 31, first vent
conduit 33, second vent conduit 35, and second seal 39. First
piston 25 defines vent chamber 37, which can house optional filter
31. In the illustrated embodiment including filter 31, first piston
25, and filter 31 define post-filter vent chamber 38 and pre-filter
vent chamber 45. In this embodiment, first piston 25 defines first
vent conduit 33. As shown in FIG. 2, first vent conduit 33 is
configured to provide fluid communication between rigid conduit 19
and the vent chambers 45 and/or 38.
[0054] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2, fluid in or
entering vent chambers 38 and/or 45 can enter filter 31. Filter 31
can retain solid or liquid in the fluid, liquid, or aerosols, but
allow gas to continue through vent chambers 38 and/or 45 into
second vent conduit 35. Fluid (e.g., gas) can pass through second
vent conduit 35 to the surroundings. Filter 31 can be positioned in
the flow of fluid from first vent conduit 33 to second vent conduit
35 in a manner such that fluid must pass through the filter. For
example, filter 31 can be positioned between first vent conduit 33
and second vent conduit 35 and can occupy a cross section between
vent chambers 38 and 45.
[0055] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2, second piston 29 is
in its first position. In this first position, second piston 29
does not obstruct flow of fluid from vent chamber 38 to second vent
conduit 35.
[0056] As shown in FIG. 3, second piston 29 can also be deployed in
its second position. In this second position, second piston 29
blocks flow of fluid from vent chambers 38 and/or 45 to or into
second vent conduit 35. Piston vent system 43 can be considered
closed with second piston 29 in its second position. Although FIG.
3 specifically illustrates one second position for second piston
29, it can also be deployed in any of a variety of positions that
block the flow of fluid from vent chambers 38 and/or 45 to or into
second vent conduit 35. Any of these variety of positions can also
be considered a second position.
[0057] Second piston 29 can be moved from its first to its second
position or from its second to its first position through any of a
variety of mechanisms. For example, second piston 29 can be moved
manually. By way of further example, second piston 29 can be moved
by a fluid handling system according to the present invention. In
such an embodiment, second piston 29 can include, for example, a
member, cavity, or surface that can couple to or interact with an
actuator portion or system of the fluid handling system.
[0058] In an embodiment, second piston 29 sealably engages first
piston 25. Second piston 29 can include any of a variety of seals
for this purpose. For example, second piston 29 can include an
annular flap or V-seal that sealably engages first piston 25. In
the illustrated embodiment, second piston 29 includes second seal
39, shown as an O-ring. Alternatively, second piston 29 and first
piston 25 can be configured to provide such sealing engagement
without an added seal.
[0059] FIG. 3 schematically illustrates an embodiment of filling
system 13 in the form of an embodiment of a piston filling system
22, specifically a two piston filling system 24. This embodiment of
a two piston filling system 24 includes first piston 25, first seal
27, second piston 29, and second seal 39. First piston 25 is
disposed in fluid chamber 23 defined by reservoir housing 21. First
piston 25 can be deployed in any of a variety of positions in fluid
chamber 23, and, optionally, can be removed from fluid chamber 23.
FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate first piston 25 deployed in its first
position with a portion (e.g., an end) proximal to rigid conduit
19.
[0060] FIG. 4 illustrates first piston 25 deployed in its second
position. In its second position, first piston 25 occupies less of
fluid chamber 23 than it does in its first position. With piston
vent system 43 in its closed configuration, movement of first
piston 25 from its first position to its second position can draw
fluid through fluid conduit 19 into fluid chamber 23.
[0061] In an embodiment, first piston 25 sealably engages reservoir
housing 21. First piston 25 can include any of a variety of seals
for this purpose. For example, first piston 25 can include an
annular flap or V-seal that sealably engages reservoir housing 21.
In the illustrated embodiment, first piston 25 includes first seal
27, shown as an O-ring. Alternatively, first piston 25 and
reservoir housing 21 can be configured to provide such sealing
engagement without an added seal.
[0062] Operation of the embodiment of receptacle 5 illustrated in
FIGS. 2, 3, and 4 can be envisioned as follows. With first piston
25 and second piston 29 each in their first positions, rigid
conduit 19 can be inserted into a sealed container. In this
configuration, piston vent system 43 is in its open configuration,
and fluid pressure can equalize between the sealed container and
the surroundings. For example, if the interior of the sealed
container is at a pressure higher than the surroundings, pressure
can escape the sealed container and filter 31 can retain solid or
liquid (e.g., from aerosol) released with the pressure. For
example, if the interior of the sealed container is at a pressure
lower than the surroundings, gas from the surroundings can enter
the sealed container and filter 31 can prevent liquids or solids
(e.g., oil or dust) from the surroundings from entering the
container. Second piston 29 can then be deployed to its second
position. With second piston 29 in its second position, piston vent
system is in its closed configuration. Moving first piston 25 to
its second position with second piston 29 in its second position
can draw fluid into fluid chamber 23 through rigid conduit 19.
[0063] FIG. 5 schematically illustrates a perspective view of
finned receptacle 100, which is another embodiment of receptacle 5.
This embodiment also includes rigid conduit 19 as an embodiment of
piercing system 7. In this embodiment, rigid conduit 19 can be in
the form of a needle (not shown) and/or can provide fluid
communication between a sealed container (not shown) and the
interior of finned receptacle 100.
[0064] FIG. 5 schematically illustrates an embodiment of reservoir
housing 21 in the form of reservoir body 102, which defines an
embodiment of fluid chamber 23 (see, e.g., FIGS. 2-4). This
illustrated embodiment includes fluid piston 110, which is an
embodiment of first piston 25. As shown, fluid piston 110 can be
positioned at least partly in reservoir body 102 and can at least
partly fill fluid chamber 23. The illustrated fluid piston 110
includes flange 112 at its external end 113. Flange 112 and fluid
piston 110 define groove 115. Flange 112 and/or groove 115 can
couple to apparatus that can move fluid piston 110 relative to
reservoir body 102. This can be accomplished, for example, by
holding fluid piston 110 while moving reservoir body 102, holding
reservoir body 102 while moving fluid piston 110, or moving both
reservoir body 102 and fluid piston 110. In addition, flange 112
and/or groove 115 can couple to apparatus that can move finned
receptacle 100.
[0065] FIG. 5 also schematically illustrates external end 117 of
vent piston 116, which is disposed in a vent cavity 122 defined by
fluid piston 110. Vent piston 116 defines a well 114. Well 114 can
couple to apparatus that can move vent piston 116 relative to fluid
piston 110 and/or reservoir body 102.
[0066] FIG. 6 schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of
the embodiment of receptacle 5 according to FIG. 5 taken along
lines A-A'. FIG. 6 schematically illustrates an embodiment of
piston vent system 43. This embodiment of piston vent system 43
includes fluid piston 110, vent piston 116, optional vent filter
128, first venting conduit 130, second venting conduit 122, and
vent piston seal 124. In this embodiment, fluid piston 110 defines
first venting conduit 130, at least one second venting conduit 122,
and vent chamber 138. As shown in FIG. 6, first venting conduit 130
is configured to provide fluid communication between rigid conduit
119 and vent chamber 138.
[0067] The embodiment of piston vent system 43 illustrated in FIG.
6 can also include vent filter 128. Vent filter 128 is an
embodiment of filter 31 and can be configured, position, and
function like filter 31.
[0068] As shown in FIG. 6, vent piston 116 can be positioned at
least partially in vent chamber 138. In an embodiment, vent piston
116 sealably engages second venting conduit 122 or fluid piston
110. Vent piston 116 can include any of a variety of seals for this
purpose. For example, vent piston 116 can include an annular flap
or V-seal that sealably engages second venting conduit 122. In the
illustrated embodiment, vent piston 116 includes vent seal 124,
shown as an O-ring. Alternatively, vent piston 116 and second
venting conduit 122 or fluid piston 110 can be configured to
provide such sealing engagement without an added seal.
[0069] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6, vent piston 116 is
in its first position. In this first position, vent piston 116 does
not obstruct flow of fluid from vent chamber 138 to second venting
conduit 122. Portions of fluid piston 110 other than those forming
second venting conduit 122 can contact vent piston 116 or the seal.
For example, FIG. 9 illustrates an embodiment of vent piston 116
seated against fluid piston 110, except for the area of second
venting conduit 122.
[0070] As shown in FIG. 7, vent piston 116 can also be deployed in
its second position (similar to second piston 29). In this second
position, vent piston 116 blocks flow of fluid from vent chamber
138 to or into second venting conduit 122. This embodiment of
piston vent system 43 can be considered closed with vent piston 116
in its second position. Although FIG. 7 specifically illustrates
one second position for vent piston 116, it can also be deployed in
any of a variety of positions that block the flow of fluid from
vent chamber 138 to or into second venting conduit 122. Any of
these variety of positions can also be considered a second
position.
[0071] Vent piston 116 is an embodiment of second piston 29. As
such, vent piston 116 can be moved from its first to its second
position or from its second to its first position through any of
the variety of mechanisms suitable for moving second piston 29. For
example, vent piston 116 can move reciprocally in vent chamber 138
as indicated by arrow 136 (FIG. 6).
[0072] FIG. 7 schematically illustrates an embodiment of two piston
filling system 24. This embodiment of a two piston filling system
24 includes fluid piston 110, fluid piston seal 126, vent piston
116, and vent piston seal 124. Fluid piston 110 is disposed in
fluid chamber 23 defined by reservoir body 102. Fluid piston 10 can
be deployed in any of a variety of positions in fluid chamber 23,
and, optionally, can be removed from fluid chamber 23. FIGS. 6 and
7 illustrate fluid piston 110 deployed in its first position with a
portion (e.g., an end) proximal to rigid conduit 119.
[0073] As shown in FIG. 7, fluid piston 110 can be positioned at
least partially in fluid chamber 23. In an embodiment, fluid piston
110 sealably engages reservoir body 102. Fluid piston 110 can
include any of a variety of seals for this purpose. For example,
fluid piston 110 can include an annular flap or V-seal that
sealably engages reservoir body 102. In the illustrated embodiment,
fluid piston 110 includes fluid piston seal 126, shown as an
O-ring. Alternatively, fluid piston 110 and reservoir body 102 can
be configured to provide such sealing engagement without an added
seal.
[0074] FIG. 8 illustrates fluid piston 110 deployed in its second
position. In its second position, fluid piston 110 occupies less of
fluid chamber 23 than it does in its first position. With piston
vent system 43 in its closed configuration, movement of fluid
piston 110 from its first position to its second position can draw
fluid 140 through rigid conduit 119 into fluid chamber 23.
[0075] Operation of the embodiment of receptacle 5 illustrated in
FIGS. 6, 7, and 8 can be envisioned as described above for the
embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 2-4. Fluid piston 110 is an
embodiment of first piston 25. Vent piston 116 is an embodiment of
second piston 29.
[0076] As shown in FIG. 6, vent piston 116 is in its first
position. In this first position, the vent chamber 138 is in fluid
communication with the surroundings through the at least one second
venting conduit 122. Vent chamber 138 can also be in fluid
communication with a vent filter 128, a first venting conduit 130,
and a rigid conduit 119. With vent piston 116 in its first
position, fluid can pass through rigid conduit 119, first venting
conduit 130, optional filter 128, vent chamber 138, and second
venting conduit 122 to the surroundings. Vent piston 116 can be in
its second position. With vent piston 116 in its second position,
and chamber 138 is not in fluid communication with second venting
conduit 122. In this second position, vent piston 116 and optional
vent seal 124 occlude second venting conduit 122. With vent piston
116 in its second position, fluid cannot pass from rigid conduit
119 into the surroundings.
[0077] FIG. 9 schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of
an embodiment of reservoir body 102 and fluid piston 110 taken
through cutting line B-B' of FIG. 5. This Figure shows two of
second venting conduit 122, which are voids defined by fluid piston
110. This figure also shows vent piston 116 seated against fluid
piston 110, except for the area of second venting conduit 122.
Illustrated Embodiments of Racks of Cartridges
[0078] FIG. 10 schematically illustrates an embodiment of a rack of
cartridges 201 according to the present invention. This embodiment
of the rack of cartridges 201 includes a support 203 and a
plurality of fluid receptacles 205. The support 203 includes a
support body 217 and receptacle retainers 215 to hold on to the
receptacles 205.
[0079] FIG. 11 schematically illustrates cartridge array 300, which
is another embodiment of a rack of cartridges. Cartridge array 300
includes a plurality of fluid receptacles 5 in the form of finned
receptacles 100. The illustrated embodiment of cartridge array 300
is configured in the form of a strip or linear array of finned
receptacles 100. In this embodiment, support 203 can be made up of
portions of finned receptacles 100, for example, one or more of
fins 103.
[0080] The fluid receptacles 5 in cartridge array 300 can be
coupled to each other through any of a variety of mechanisms. For
example, they can be coupled with a chemical adhesive or
mechanically. In an embodiment, a plurality of fluid receptacles 5
can be coupled by a rack that holds the plurality of fluid
receptacles 5 together as a unit. In an embodiment, one or two
integral units can form a plurality of reservoir bodies 102 and
fins 103. For example, the reservoir body 102 and fin 103 portions
of cartridge array 300 could be molded as two halves which can be
assembled with the remaining components and bonded together to form
cartridge array 300.
[0081] Cartridge array 300 can define at least one optional
indentation 352, which can aid in its manipulation. Indentations
352 can be on one or both sides of the cartridge array 300.
Although FIG. 11 illustrates indentation 352 in the middle of
cartridge rack 300, the at least one indentation 352 may be located
at other positions such as toward one end of the cartridge array
300.
Illustrated Embodiments of Racks of Cartridges and Racks of Sealed
Containers
[0082] FIG. 12 schematically illustrates cartridge array 300
coupled to an embodiment of a rack for sealed containers, container
support 400. In this view, the first side housing 402 is shown
engaging a second side housing 412. The first side housing 402 and
the second side housing 412 support embodiments of sealed
containers, tall tube 456 and short tube 458. In this illustrated
embodiment, each side housing includes at least one extension 406
and at least one guide slot 409. The guide slot 409 and extension
406 can be employed to position container support 400 and cartridge
array 300 in a system that operates on these assemblies. The guide
slot 409 can engage a fin 103 (shown on the bottom of the cartridge
in FIG. 5) on cartridge array 300. Latch 403 can be employed to
coupled one or more of cartridge array 300, first side housing 402,
and second side housing 412.
[0083] FIG. 13 schematically illustrates a partially cutaway view
of the container support 400 shown in FIG. 12 coupled to cartridge
array 300. This view also shows tall tube 456, short tube 458, and
raised tube 506. Tall tube 456 is labeled with a first barcode 557,
short tube 458 is labeled with a second barcode 559, and raised
tube 506 is labeled with a third barcode 561. The tubes are
illustrated with an embodiment of a sealing structure in the form
of a septum cap 560. The septum cap is oriented toward rigid
conduits 319 of cartridge array 300. The tubes are free to rotate
around their longest axis within tube holders 504. Such rotation
can allow an operator or system to rotate a tube so that its
barcode can be read through code window 505, which is defined by
first side housing 402.
[0084] One of skill in the art will appreciate that sample tubes of
different heights can be accommodated by container support 400.
FIG. 13 schematically illustrates an embodiment of container
support 400 that can accommodate up to eight tubes. However, one of
skill in the art will appreciate that any number of tubes can be
accommodated by changing the size of the container support 400.
[0085] FIG. 14 schematically illustrates first side housing 402 of
container support 300. First side housing 402 includes a plurality
of tube holders 504 configured to retain tubes such as tall tube
456, short tube 458, and raised tube 506. First side housing 402
defines a plurality of code windows 505, through which data on the
exterior of sample tubes can be read. First side housing 402 also
defines fin slot 409, which can house a fin 103 of cartridge array
300 and position cartridge array 300 for coupling to a sample tube
(e.g., 456, 458, or 506).
[0086] FIG. 15 schematically illustrates first side housing 402 of
container support 300 as shown in FIG. 14 and also including tall
tube 456 and short tube 458 residing in tube holders 504.
Method
[0087] The present invention includes a method of handling fluids,
such as blood, serum, or other biological fluids. The present
method can employ the cartridge and/or system of the present
invention. The present method can include equalizing pressure
between a sealed container (e.g., a septum sealed container) and
its surroundings, removing a sample from a sealed container
(without removing the seal from the container), and/or dispensing
that sample into a receptacle. In an embodiment, present method can
include obtaining a fluid sample without releasing fluid (e.g., as
an aerosol) from the sealed container into the surroundings.
[0088] The method can be conducted by an automated or
semi-automated system. In an embodiment, the automated method can
include high throughput sample handling and dispensing. Such a high
throughput method can include sampling from up to 1000 sample
containers per hour, acquiring samples with any of a variety of
volumes (e.g., about 50 to about 1000 .mu.L), and/or dispensing
variable sample volume.
[0089] In an embodiment, the automated method can include machine
reading of an identifying marking (e.g., a barcode) from a
container. Advantageously, the machine reading can be conducted
without prior manual orientation of the containers. For example, in
an embodiment, the machine can move (e.g., rotate) the sealed
container through a variety orientations including one that allows
for machine reading of the identifying marking. The automated
method can also include employing the identifying marking and
maintaining automated sample chain of custody from the sample
container to the receptacle. In an embodiment, the present method
can include processing samples in a predetermined sequence. In an
embodiment, the present method can include processing samples in a
sequence determined by the system in response to at least one
characteristic of at least one sample.
[0090] In an embodiment, the present method can include urging a
conduit into a sealed container. This can be accomplished without
removing the cap or seal from the container. The present method can
also include venting the sealed container. Venting can include
filtering any fluid entering or leaving the sealed container.
Filtering can, for example, trap any solid or liquid (e.g., from an
aerosol) leaving the container or any liquid or solid entering from
the surroundings. The present method can also include disposing of
the cartridge or other article employed for obtaining the sample
after dispensing the sample.
[0091] In an embodiment, the present method can include coupling an
assembly of a plurality of cartridges to an assembly of a plurality
of sample containers. Such coupling can include establishing a
one-to-one correspondence between the cartridges and the sample
containers.
[0092] In an embodiment, the method of the invention includes
venting a sealed container and trapping or filtering any fluid
released from the container. The method also includes withdrawing a
fluid sample from the sealed container. In an embodiment, venting
and withdrawing include piercing a septum on the sealed container.
Venting and withdrawing can be accomplished employing a single
apparatus, such as a cartridge of the present invention. In an
embodiment, the present method operates on a plurality of sealed
containers at the same time. For example, the method can include
positioning, at one time, a plurality of the single apparatus that
accomplishes both venting and withdrawing in proximity with each of
a plurality of sealed containers. The method can include operating
each of the plurality of single apparatus simultaneously, at
overlapping times, or in rapid sequence for venting and
withdrawing.
[0093] The method can include dispensing the fluid sample.
Dispensing can place the sample into any of a variety of convenient
containers, such as one or more wells of a microtiter plate. In an
embodiment, dispensing includes moving the apparatus (e.g.,
cartridge) away from the sealed container and positioning it
proximal to the receiving container. In an embodiment, dispensing
includes positioning, at one time, a plurality of the single
apparatus that accomplishes both venting and withdrawing in
proximity with each of a plurality of the receiving containers. For
example, dispensing can include moving the plurality of single
apparatus from a first configuration in which they are in proximity
with each of a plurality of larger sealed containers to a second
configuration in which one or more of the single apparatus are in
proximity with one or more of a plurality smaller receiving
containers (e.g., wells of a microtiter plate). Dispensing can
include dispensing the contents of one or more of the single
apparatus at any given time.
[0094] In an embodiment, dispensing includes withdrawing the fluid
sample from the single apparatus and placing the fluid in a
receiving container. For example, dispensing can include
simultaneously withdrawing fluid samples from each of a plurality
of single apparatus and placing the samples into each of a
plurality of smaller receiving containers (e.g., wells of a
microtiter plate). Dispensing can include withdrawing fluid samples
from one or more of a plurality of single apparatus at any given
time. In an embodiment, there are eight single apparatus and the
contents of a first four single apparatus are placed into four
receiving containers amongst a plurality of receiving containers,
then the eight single apparatus are moved with respect to the
plurality of receiving containers and the contents of a second four
single apparatus are placed into four different receiving
containers amongst the plurality of receiving containers. Placing
the samples can include expelling the sample from the plurality of
single apparatus with a piston or other source of positive
pressure.
[0095] In an embodiment, the invention includes a method for
handling fluid samples with an automated system including
extracting sample fluid from a sample container into a fluid
receptacle. The fluid receptacle can include a fluid extraction
conduit and define a first cavity and include a first piston and a
second piston. The first piston can be disposed in the first cavity
and define a second cavity, the second piston can be disposed in
the second cavity.
[0096] In an embodiment, the method can also include venting the
sample container. The first piston can define a first fluid conduit
and a second fluid conduit. The first fluid conduit can be in fluid
communication with the fluid extraction conduit. The first fluid
conduit can be in fluid communication with the first cavity. The
second piston can be movable between an open position wherein the
first cavity is in fluid communication with the second fluid
conduit, and a closed position wherein the first cavity is not in
fluid communication with the second fluid conduit. Venting the
sample container can include inserting the fluid extraction conduit
into the sample container with the second piston in the open
position. The method can further include dispensing the sample
fluid from the fluid receptacle into an output container.
Illustrated Embodiment of Method
[0097] An embodiment of the present method can be illustrated by
reference to FIG. 13. FIG. 13 schematically illustrates a partially
cutaway view of a container support 400 coupled to a cartridge
array 300. This embodiment of the method can include placing sample
tubes (e.g., 456, 458, and 506) into container support 400. The
sample tubes can include an identifying barcode (e.g., 557, 559,
and 561). The method can include coupling a cartridge array 300 to
container support 400. Coupling can occur before or after placing.
Coupling can include latching cartridge array 300 to container
support 400 with a latch 403. FIG. 14 shows latch 403.
[0098] The method can include identifying each of the tubes in
container support 400. Identifying can include machine reading the
identifying barcode on each tube. Identifying can also include
manipulating a tube to make the identifying barcode accessible for
machine reading. Manipulating can include, for example, rotating
the tube around its major axis. In the illustrated embodiment,
manipulating can include aligning the a barcode with a code window
505, which makes the barcode visible outside container support
400.
[0099] The method can include coupling at least one tube with a
cartridge. Coupling can include moving the tube in the direction of
the cartridge and urging the cartridge's conduit into the tube.
Alternatively, coupling can include moving the cartridge in the
direction of the tube, or moving both the tube and the cartridge.
Tube and cartridge are coupled when a portion of the cartridge
(e.g., the conduit) is within the tube.
[0100] In the illustrated embodiment, the tube can be moved
relative to the cartridge and urged onto the conduit by a shaft or
other structure that can be inserted into container support 400
through aperture 510. The shaft or other structure (not shown) can
move relative to the container support, or the container support
can move relative to the shaft or other structure. In an
embodiment, the shaft or other structure is stationary and the
container support is moved relative to the shaft or other
structure. For example, a shaft can move a septum sealed tube
toward the cartridge and cause the conduit (illustrated as rigid
conduit 319) to pierce the septum and enter the tube.
[0101] Coupling can be conducted with the vent of a vented
cartridge open, allowing fluid communication between the rigid
conduit in the surroundings. Such venting can be conducted as
described above with reference to FIGS. 2-4 and 6-8. The method can
also include removing a sample from the sample tube and/or filling
the cartridge. Such removing and filling is also described above
with reference to FIGS. 2-4 and 6-8.
System
[0102] The present invention includes a system that can be used for
automated handling of fluids, such as blood, serum, or other
biological fluids. Embodiments of the present system can operate on
the present cartridge and can carry out automated embodiments of
the present method. In an embodiment, the present system can
operate a rack of cartridges coupled to a rack of sealed
containers. Advantageously, in certain embodiments, the automated
system can provide high throughput handling of racks of cartridges
coupled to racks of sealed containers. For example, in an
embodiment, the system can obtain samples of any of a variety of
preselected volumes (e.g., about 50 to about 1000 .mu.L) from up to
about 1000 sealed containers per hour and dispense all or part of
the sample into a secondary container, such as a microtiter plate.
In an embodiment, the system can invert a cartridge coupled to a
sealed container or a rack of cartridges coupled to a rack of
sealed containers.
[0103] The system can be configured to read an identifying marking
(e.g., a barcode) on a sealed container and to orient the container
for machine reading, if necessary. The system can include a
processor configured to associate the identifying marking with
characteristics or properties of the sample, with the handling done
to the sample, and/or with the destination of the sample. Such a
configuration can provide automated sample chain of custody
maintenance from the sample container to the secondary container.
The processor can be configured to alter the order or type of
processing for one or more samples in response to operator input or
in response to information associated with the identified
sample.
[0104] The present system can be configured to carry out one or
more of a variety of procedures employed in obtaining a sample from
a sealed container and dispensing it into a secondary container.
For example, in an embodiment, the present system can aspirate a
fluid sample from at least one sealed container, e.g., a septum
sealed container, into a fluid receptacle. The present system can
be configured to operate a fluid receptacle to equalize pressure
between the sealed container and the surroundings. Such a system
can obtain a fluid sample without releasing unacceptable fluid
(e.g., as an aerosol) from the fluid receptacle and the sealed
container. The system can be configured to dispense the fluid
sample from the fluid receptacle into the secondary container.
Embodiments of the System
[0105] The system can be configured to handle the cartridge and/or
container. In an embodiment, the system can acquire a sample from a
sealed container. For example, the system can manipulate the
cartridge to withdraw a sample from a sealed container. The system
and cartridge can work together in a manner that obtains a sample
from the sealed container without otherwise altering the sample or
the container. That is, the container can be recovered effectively
sealed and ready for storage or further processing, but without an
aliquot of the sample.
[0106] In an embodiment, the system can dispense the sample into a
secondary container, such as a microtiter plate. In an embodiment,
the system can dispense a sample in portions into two or more
secondary containers, e.g., wells of a microtiter plate.
Advantageously, in certain embodiments, the system and the
cartridge can work together to obtain and dispense samples from a
plurality of containers without detectable or significant
contamination of one sample with another. Advantageously, in
certain embodiments, the system can rapidly obtain and dispense
samples with precision and accuracy suitable for use in a
commercial or research laboratory.
[0107] The fluid handling system can be configured to receive one
or more sealed containers of fluid, for example, in a rack. The
system can include a container receiving system. The rack of sealed
containers can have been mated with a rack of cartridges by the
operator, or the system can be configured to mate a rack of
cartridges with the rack of sealed containers. The fluid handling
system can include a cartridge receiving system and a rack mating
system.
[0108] The fluid handling system can include a rack transport
system. The rack transport system can be configured to transport
racks of containers and/or cartridges into and through the fluid
handling system. The rack transport system can operate, for
example, in cooperation with or as part of the container receiving
system. The rack transport system can be configured to move a rack
from the container receiving system to or through subsequent
subsystems of the fluid handling system.
[0109] The fluid handling system can include a sample cataloging
system. The sample cataloging system can be configured to read
machine-readable information (e.g., a barcode or radio frequency
identification tag) on the container or rack of containers. The
sample cataloging system can be configured to read machine-readable
information (e.g., a barcode or radio frequency identification tag)
on the secondary container. The sample cataloging system can be
configured to process and store the information. The rack transport
system can be configured to move a rack to, through, and/or out of
the sample cataloging system.
[0110] The fluid handling system can include a sample removing
system. The sample removing system can be configured to operate the
cartridge to obtain a fluid sample from the sealed container. For
example, in an embodiment, the sample removing system can be
configured to move one or more cartridges so that a portion of the
cartridge enters the sealed container. The sample removing system
can be configured to operate the cartridge to draw a fluid sample
from the container into the cartridge. The sample removing system
can be configured to separate the cartridge from the container. In
an embodiment, the sample removing system can be configured to
invert the sealed container or rack of sealed containers.
[0111] The rack transport system can be configured to move a rack
to, through, and/or out of the sample removing system. The rack
transport system can be configured to transport a rack of sealed
containers away from the sample removing system and to the exterior
of fluid handling system. The rack of sealed containers can then be
removed from the system and, for example, stored, disposed of, or
subjected to different or additional processing steps.
[0112] The fluid handling system can include a cartridge handling
system. The cartridge handling system can be configured to receive
and/or operate on a cartridge that has received a fluid sample from
a sealed container. The cartridge handling system can be configured
to add fluid to the cartridge, to remove fluid from the cartridge,
to heat the cartridge, to cool the cartridge, or to otherwise
process the fluid in the cartridge. The cartridge handling system
can be configured to separate the rack of cartridges from the rack
of containers.
[0113] The cartridge handling system can be configured to dispense
fluid from the cartridge or rack of cartridges into the second
container. The cartridge handling system can be configured to
dispense fluid from one or more of the cartridges in the separated
rack into one or more secondary containers, e.g., wells of a
microtiter plate. For example, the cartridge handling system can
dispense fluid from alternate cartridges in the rack into adjacent
wells of a microtiter plate. The cartridge handling system can
dispense fluid from the remaining alternate cartridges in the rack
into a second set of adjacent wells of a microtiter plate. The
cartridge handling system can be configured to present the
cartridge for disposal or to place the cartridge in a disposal
container.
[0114] The system can operate on sealed containers or racks of
sealed containers including any of the containers or tubes and caps
or seals described above with respect to the cartridge. The system
can operate on uniform or mixed sets of tube lengths and/or
diameters in a single rack and/or run. In an embodiment, the
present system can achieve precise and/or accurate volumes in
withdrawing and/or dispensing samples through controlling the
precision with which the piston is moved or the manner in which the
cartridge is manipulated to withdraw and/or dispense the
sample.
Illustrated Embodiments of the System
[0115] FIG. 16 schematically illustrates an embodiment of the fluid
handling system according to the present invention. The illustrated
embodiment includes a rack conveyor 701, an identification system
703, an aspiration system 705, optional fluid processing system
707, a fluid dispensing system 709, and/or an aliquot conveyor
711.
[0116] In this illustrated embodiment, rack conveyor 701 represents
an embodiment of rack transport system. Rack conveyor 701 can be
configured to receive and transport a rack of sealed containers,
which can be coupled to a rack of cartridges, and transport it into
and through the fluid handling system. Rack conveyor 701 can be or
include any of a variety of known conveyors suitable for moving a
rack of tubes.
[0117] In this illustrated embodiment, identification system 703
represents an embodiment of sample cataloging system.
Identification system 703 can be configured to read indicia on the
rack of cartridges, such as a barcode, a radio frequency
identification tag, or the like. The indicia can provide an
indication of the content of the sealed container, or processing
steps for that sample. Identification system 703 can be or can
include any of a variety of barcode readers, radio frequency
actuators, or other known systems for reading indicia.
Identification system 703 can also read indicia on a rack of
containers and/or on secondary containers such as a microtiter
plate.
[0118] In this illustrated embodiment, aspiration system 705
represents an embodiment of the sample removing system. Aspiration
system 705 can be configured to urge at least a portion of the
cartridge into the sealed container and remove a fluid sample into
the cartridge. Aspiration system 705 can include any of a variety
of configurations of valves, tubes, probes, pumps, aspirators, or
the like effective for moving fluids and for coupling to a
cartridge. Aspiration system 705 may also be configured to invert
the cartridge, the sealed container, or both.
[0119] In this illustrated embodiment, optional fluid processing
system 707 represents an embodiment of a portion of the cartridge
handling system. Fluid processing system 707 can be configured to
heat, shine light on, irradiate, add reagent to, remove reagent
from, or otherwise process the fluid sample obtained by aspiration
system 705. Fluid processing system 707 can include any of a
variety of configurations of light sources, heaters, reagent
dispensers, valves, tubes, probes, pumps, actuators, or the like
effective for treating a fluid sample in a vessel.
[0120] In this illustrated embodiment, fluid dispensing system 709
represents an embodiment of another portion of the cartridge
handling system. Fluid dispensing system 709 can be configured to
place a fluid sample obtained in a cartridge into a predetermined
container, such as a particular well of a microtiter plate. Fluid
dispensing system 709 can be configured to place each of a
plurality of fluid samples into each of a corresponding plurality
of wells. Fluid dispensing system 709 can include any of a variety
of configurations of valves, tubes, probes, pumps, actuators, or
the like effective for dispensing a fluid sample into a
container.
[0121] In this illustrated embodiment, aliquot conveyor 711
represents an embodiment of a portion of rack transport system.
Aliquot conveyor 711 can be configured to transport a container,
such as a microtiter plate from fluid dispensing system 709 to the
surroundings. Aliquot conveyor 711 can be or can include any of a
variety of conveyors suitable for carrying a container such as a
microtiter plate.
[0122] The automation system of the invention can be used to
automate functions of the present system or procedures employed in
the present method, several of which are described above.
Components of the automation system can also invert a rack of
samples or cartridges.
[0123] Referring again to FIG. 13, an automated embodiment of the
present system can engage container support 400 and/or cartridge
array 300 and can operate latch 403 (shown in FIG. 15). Engaging
the container support 400 and operating the latch 403 can secure
this assembly in the system and can couple the two components of
the assembly to one another. As shown in FIG. 13, an automated
embodiment of the present system can move a tube within container
support 400 from a position disengaged from cartridge array 300
(right hand two tubes) to a position coupled to cartridge array 300
(left and tube). The system can include a push rod, an array of
rods, or the like configured to move the sample tubes relative to
the container support 400. The rods or other configuration for
moving the tubes can enter container support 400 through apertures
510. The rods move relative to the container support 400.
Therefore, the rods may be stationary or may move. The container
support 400 may be stationary or may move.
[0124] It should be noted that, as used in this specification and
the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the"
include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates
otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to a composition containing
"a compound" includes a mixture of two or more compounds. It should
also be noted that the term "or" is generally employed in its sense
including "and/or" unless the content clearly dictates
otherwise.
[0125] It should also be noted that, as used in this specification
and the appended claims, the phrase "configured" describes a
system, apparatus, or other structure that is constructed or
configured to perform a particular task or adopt a particular
configuration to. The phrase "configured" can be used
interchangeably with other similar phrases such as arranged and
configured, adapted and configured, constructed and arranged,
adapted, constructed, manufactured and arranged, and the like.
[0126] Directions used herein are only to describe relations in a
relative manner. For example, something described as on the top of
an object may also be considered to be on the bottom of the object
depending on the orientation of the object. Further, descriptions
herein of the movement of objects are relative. For example, when
an object is described to move it may actually be stationary and
other objects may move.
[0127] All publications and patent applications in this
specification are indicative of the level of ordinary skill in the
art to which this invention pertains. All publications and patent
applications are herein incorporated by reference to the same
extent as if each individual publication or patent application was
specifically and individually indicated by reference.
[0128] The invention has been described with reference to various
specific and preferred embodiments and techniques. However, it
should be understood that many variations and modifications may be
made while remaining within the spirit and scope of the
invention.
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